Kitui County has received a fresh consignment of drugs valued at Ksh. 79 million from the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA), just a week after distributing supplies worth Ksh. 8.9 million to major hospitals, including Kitui County Referral Hospital and Mwingi Level IV Hospital. This latest delivery is part of a broader effort to ensure that all 308 county health facilities are adequately stocked with essential medications.
During the launch of the drug distribution, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health and Sanitation, Ms. Ruth Koki, announced that all county health facilities would have sufficient drug supplies within the next two weeks. She emphasized that the newly received drugs are expected to last for the next four months, providing a reliable supply for the county’s healthcare system.
Ms. Koki proudly noted that Kitui is the first county in Kenya to receive such a substantial consignment, despite originally ordering Ksh. 111 million worth of drugs but receiving Ksh. 79 million due to supply constraints.
Ms. Koki attributed the timely receipt of the drugs to Kitui County’s reputation at KEMSA for prompt payment. She highlighted that this reliability has positioned the county as a priority recipient of medical supplies, allowing for consistent drug availability across its health facilities.
To address any shortfall from the initial order, Ms. Koki also revealed that the county would source the remaining drugs from other suppliers, including the Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies (MEDS).
The Chief Officer in charge of Drugs and Medical Supplies, Mr. Aggrey Kamba, assured the public that the days of drug shortages in county health facilities are over. He emphasized that the county government has implemented measures to ensure that all health centers remain well-stocked, thus preventing the frequent drug shortages experienced in the past.
Mr. Kamba’s remarks highlight the county’s commitment to improving healthcare services for its residents.
Moreover, Mr. Kamba addressed concerns about the misappropriation of government hospital drugs, which have previously ended up in private pharmacies. He assured the public that stringent controls have been put in place to prevent such occurrences, ensuring that drugs intended for public hospitals are used exclusively for their intended purpose.
This move is part of the county’s broader strategy to safeguard public resources and enhance the integrity of its healthcare system.
Ends///
